Toronto Raptors: 5 takeaways from 2017-18 Media Day

Photo by Ron Turenne/NBAE via Getty Images
Photo by Ron Turenne/NBAE via Getty Images /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 6
Next
Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images
Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images /

5. The starting small forward hasn’t been determined

Obviously, Kyle Lowry, DeMar DeRozan, Serge Ibaka and Jonas Valanciunas will fill out Toronto’s starting lineup, but the small forward spot is still up for debate.

Dwane Casey will have to pay close attention throughout training camp to determine his fifth starter, via Blake Murphy of Raptors Republic.

"“Who fits? What guy fits with that group? Norm Powell did an excellent job for us last year, especially in the playoffs. His thing is to be more consistent. He’s probably our best attack player off the dribble, getting to the rim with force. His challenge is to make sure he can make decisions once he does see those roadblocks and see the seven-footers coming towards him, and be ready to make a play off the dribble, because he has it and that’s what he’s been working on all summer, is making the next pass on time on target…That position is gonna have to be a guy that fits with DeMar, Kyle, Serge, JV in that position. I’ve talked to both C.J. and Norm, it could be either one.”"

Casey may end up experimenting with both players throughout the season to see which player fits best. Powell can handle the ball and finish at the rim better than Miles, but C.J. is the superior shooter.

C.J. Miles will probably get the nod at the starting position, not only because of his experience but also his ability to space the floor. The Raptors didn’t excel at 3-point shooting last year, but they’ll look to create more long distance opportunities this year.